West Highland White Terrier

Origins and History

The West Highland White Terrier originated in the Scottish Highlands in the early 19th century. Bred from various terrier types to create a small, white, hardy hunting dog, the breed was formalised by Sir William Jardine in the 1860s. The Westie gained popularity after winning the first Best in Show at the 1907 Westminster Kennel Club exhibition, cementing its status as a classic terrier.

General Characteristics

• Compact, sturdy build with a square outline; height roughly 10‑11 inches (25‑28 cm) for males and 9½‑10½ inches (24‑27 cm) for females.
• Bright, alert expression; black, almond‑shaped eyes and V‑shaped ears set high.
• Temperament: lively, courageous, and affectionate, yet independent and occasionally stubborn.
• Originally a small‑game hunter; today a companion, show, and agility competitor.

Disclaimer: The information provided reflects current breed standards and common practice, but individual dogs may vary.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 10‑11 inches (25‑28 cm); Females 9½‑10½ inches (24‑27 cm).
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 15‑22 lb (7‑10 kg).

Coat and Color

• Texture: harsh, wiry outer coat over a soft, dense undercoat; hand‑stripped or clipped to a length of 1‑2 mm for show.
• Color: pure white only; any shading, markings, or cream is a disqualification under AKC, KC, and FCI standards.

Temperament Considerations

Westies are bold and inquisitive, which can translate to a strong prey drive and occasional head‑strong attitude. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but they may test boundaries if training is inconsistent.

Training Essentials

• Early, positive‑reinforcement socialization with people, dogs, and varied environments.
• Daily mental and physical exercise – at least 30‑45 minutes of brisk walks, play, or puzzle work.
• Consistent, firm guidance; avoid harsh corrections which can provoke fear or aggression.
• Patience with “stubborn” moments – short, frequent sessions work best.

Daily Grooming

• Brush the coat 2‑3 times per week with a stainless‑steel slicker or pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bath as needed; use a mild, hypoallergenic dog shampoo to maintain coat texture.
• Trim nails weekly or when they click on a hard surface; keep ear canals clean and free of debris.
• Dental care: brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Hand‑strip the coat 2‑3 weeks before the show to achieve the desired harsh texture; many handlers clip to a uniform length of 1‑2 mm for ring work.
• Trim the ears and toenails the day before the show for a neat appearance.
• Apply a light coat of conditioning spray to enhance shine without softening the wire.
• Practice proper stance and gait on a flat surface to ensure the “square” movement required by the standard.

Common Health Issues

• Patellar luxation – often screened by veterinary orthopaedic examination.
• Hip dysplasia – radiographic screening recommended by Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP.
• Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – ophthalmic exams recommended annually.
• Atopic dermatitis – common skin allergy; manage with diet, medicated shampoos, and veterinary‑guided therapy.
• Tracheal collapse – may present as a honking cough; monitor weight and avoid excessive excitement.
• Hypothyroidism – blood test if clinical signs such as weight gain or lethargy appear.

General Care

• Exercise: moderate daily activity; avoid over‑exertion in hot weather.
• Nutrition: high‑quality protein diet appropriate for small, active breeds; maintain ideal body condition to reduce joint stress.
• Lifespan: typically 12‑16 years; regular veterinary wellness exams help detect age‑related issues early.